The conflicts resulting from the meeting of the Australia's
Indigenous people with white settlers more than 200 years ago are
still visible in the Australia of today: While many whites are
convinced that Aborigines are unwilling to become integrated into
society, many Aborigines are exposed to racism, injustice and
discrimination. Not surprisingly, many Aborigines escape to drugs
and alcohol and constitute the minority in Australia who is affected
most by poverty, unemployment and social exclusion. Others have
built rich lives within these social constraints. Imaginary Border,
without idealizing Aboriginal culture, focuses on the Aboriginal
experience, accompanying their constant struggle to feel at home in
their own land. Through interviews with urban and rural activists,
artists, musicians, administrators, and a judge, the film, in a lyrical
way, follows the search of the Aboriginal peoples for a balance
between a way that is accepted by white society and the desire to
keep their own roots. But Imaginary Border brings up a question
that is not just limited to Australian society: Will the peaceful
coexistence of two or more cultures, not forcing anyone into
assimilation, always remain a utopia?
